Modular Buildings vs Portable Cabins

Modular building or portable cabin – which do you choose, what are the differences and what can they be used for? At Midlands Portable Buildings (MPB), we specialise in both and are here to answer your questions on each structure.

Whether you choose a modular building or portable cabin, both provide many benefits for different environments requiring additional space, much faster and more affordably than traditional construction. Let’s dive into each building structure in more detail.

What Is A Modular Building?

A modular building is a permanent or temporary building structure built using different modules in a dedicated off-site facility, which are then delivered and assembled on site, forming a finished building.

Modular buildings are typically large structures that can be used for dedicated or multiple applications in a variety of different environments. For example, commercial modular buildings can be used as:

These are just some of the uses businesses and people choose for a modular building, but applications can be almost limitless, allowing for in-depth customisation and specific detail.

What Is A Portable Cabin?

Portable cabins are mostly used as temporary building structures and can be moved and relocated with ease. These cabins are built off site and delivered as self-contained units, with various uses including:

Portable cabins can be customised with windows, security systems, exterior features like walkways and other features, as well as be stacked on top of each other. While they can be built to different sizes, their design is typically more compact for easy relocation and temporary use.

How To Choose The Right Solution

Intended Use

A modular building is ideally suited for long-term or permanent usage. This means it can be customised more freely compared to a portable cabin, which is designed as a temporary building structure.

Choose a modular building if you know the space will be used for the long term or permanently, such as additional classroom or office space; choose a portable cabin if the intended use is short term, such as storage space for construction or a portable canteen for food festivals.

Space Requirements

Consider how much space your site has, as smaller floor spaces will benefit better from a more compact portable cabin, whereas modular buildings are more suited for larger areas. This isn’t necessarily a point-blank decision, as both options can be made-to-measure, with bespoke services designing the structures in line with unique space requirements. Additionally, while typically smaller in design, portable cabins can be stacked on top of each other – a great solution for those conscious of floor space.

Timeline

Both structures can be constructed, delivered and installed quickly, but a portable cabin wins in this regard, only slightly. While modular buildings take slightly longer to build off site, typically taking between 8 and 12 weeks, other processes can be done in tandem like the groundworks and planning permission requirements. While both structures can be installed on site far quicker than traditional means, if you require an even speedier process, choose a portable cabin.

Differences Between Modular Buildings And Portable Cabins

Construction

What is a modular building without its unique construction? Sections, or modules, are constructed off site and then transported and assembled by experts on location, often forming multi-room or multi-storey structures. Groundworks will also need to be completed before installation to accommodate the weight of the modules.

In contrast, portable cabins are built entirely off site as self-contained units and delivered ready to use, requiring minimal on-site installation.

Design

A modular building offers greater design flexibility and customisation, from the layout, size, finishes and architectural features. While you can opt for used modular buildings with an existing design, many choose to design their own, with features tailored to specific needs and environments.

Portable cabins are generally standardised in design and layout, with limited scope for customisation. They prioritise fast deployment and functionality over bespoke design.

Use

As they are for more long-term or permanent usage, modular buildings are perfect for offices, classrooms, healthcare centres and other commercial premises. They can also be expanded or reconfigured as needed.

Portable cabins are versatile structures and can also be used for applications such as offices, but structure-specific applications generally include storage or temporary accommodation. Shipping containers are often converted into portable cabins – read 10 creative uses of converting shipping containers to learn more.

Regulations

Do you need planning permission for a modular building? Planning permission and following the correct compliance procedures can be the bane of many businesses’ development plans. No matter if it’s a modular building or a portable, temporary building structure – if it is standing for more than 28 days, it will require planning permission. This is just one of the rules of the regulations, with modular buildings often requiring full local building regulations like traditional structures. On the other hand, portable cabins may face fewer regulatory requirements depending on size, use and how long they will remain on site. If you are questioning which regulations to adhere to regarding your structure, get in touch with our team to handle the process on your behalf.

Choose A Temporary Building Solution Today

Modular buildings and portable cabins are popular, affordable and fast structures for a host of uses, with a few differences. A modular building is ideal for a customisable space that is intended for long-term or permanent use, and a portable cabin is a perfect alternative for those needing a smaller and temporary ready-made space. Deciding on which structure will work best will depend on its use and your site.

MPB is here to help you decide which option will work best – followed by building your structure, delivering it to your site and installing it to perfection. Receive a quote from our team or talk to us on 01889 271 406.

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